Twins' Rookie Opening Eyes But Wants To Catch Flies

The last thing Eric Bullock expects to do this spring is make the Minnesota Twins major-league roster. But if Bullock isn't careful, he may surprise himself.

Nobody has been more impressive in the Twins' first two spring-training games than Bullock, a veteran minor-league outfielder whose left-handed hitting and rabbit-like speed are just what the team needs.

Bullock, 28, contributed two hits, two runs, two steals and an RBI Sunday afternoon, helping the Twins defeat the Chunichi Dragons, 8-3, in the home- opener at Tinker Field.

''Hopefully, I'm catching some eyes,'' said Bullock, who leads the team in hits (three) and stolen bases (three) and is tied for the lead in RBIs (three) and runs (two). ''But I honestly don't think my chances are very good.''

Bullock said he does not envision cracking an outfield that features three proven starters (Kirby Puckett, Tom Brunansky and Dan Gladden) and two capable reserves (Randy Bush and Mark Davidson). He expects to start the 1988 season where he finished the 1987 season -- Class AAA Portland.

''I can't see any openings,'' Bullock said. ''When you win a World Series, you don't want to break up the chemistry. You don't want to make too many changes.''

Twins Manager Tom Kelly said he will do what's best for the team. If Bullock proves that he belongs in Minnesota, Kelly would make room for him.

''Everybody has a chance,'' Kelly said. ''You never know what's going to happen.''

Bullock has tasted the major leagues before. Drafted by the Houston Astros in June 1981, he played 18 games for the Astros in 1985 and six in 1986 before injuries to his foot and thumb got the best of him. He was traded to the Twins last June for pitcher Clay Christiansen.

''I don't feel I got a chance with Houston,'' said Bullock, who has hit more than .300 and stole more than 40 bases on every minor-league level. ''I got caught up in a numbers game between old and young players.''

Bullock said he thinks he has the ability to play in the big leagues. A natural singles hitter, he said he'll never lead a team in home runs or RBIs, but he can contribute in other ways.

''If somebody is looking for a guy who can hit singles and steal bases, I'm their man,'' Bullock said. ''I'm confident I can do the job. All I need is a chance.''

The Twins would love to have another left-handed hitter on the roster. They also would love another speedster. But unless they make a trade or demote somebody unexpectedly, it's doubtful Bullock will get a chance.

''I won't be upset going back to Portland,'' Bullock said. ''If I start the season there, maybe I'll be the first one they call up if something happens to one of the major-leaguers.''

Bullock also won't rule out playing in another organization. He said he doesn't care where he plays if somebody gives him an opportunity.

''This is not the only team,'' he said. ''There are a lot of teams out there who might be able to use me. If I can hit .300 and steal 35 to 40 bases, I should be able to play somewhere.''